Amateur radio
Amateur radio operators are connected worldwide, transmitting technical information about transmission and reception attempts as well as personal messages. Users include private individuals and amateur radio clubs. A valid licence is required for authorisation as an amateur radio operator or NOVICE amateur radio operator. OFCOM administers the required examinations.
Amateur radio factsheet
Provides general information, an extract from the provisions of the radio regulations for amateur radio, and abbreviations.
Further information can be found at the bottom of the page under ‘Legal basis’.
Application for an amateur radio licence (call sign)
Private individuals and organisations should apply using the DETEC eGovernment portal of the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications.
New customers must first register on the portal. This can be done free of charge via the CH-LOGIN provided by the Confederation. Instructions are available in the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).
Existing OFCOM customers who never had an account on the previous portal (OFCOM Online) are requested to email us at
kf-fk@bakom.admin.ch before registering on the DETEC eGovernment portal. You can register and submit your application as soon as you receive our approval.
Request amateur radio call sign (private individuals)
Request amateur radio call sign (clubs)
You can also contact OFCOM directly if you have questions about the portal (kf-fk@bakom.admin.ch).
Notification of special frequency usage
The specific usage of frequencies for the following applications must be reported to OFCOM:
- Unattended systems, e.g. relays
- Remote-controlled systems (remote stations)
- Satellite links, e.g. QO-100
- Contest stations
- Special applications
It is advisable to carry out frequency coordination in advance in order to ensure that the frequency can be used on the unattended system free from interference. The Union of Swiss Shortwave Amateurs (USKA) provides voluntary support with coordination and can be reached via email at qrg@uska.ch. You can then submit the notification to OFCOM via the eGov portal.
To use this service, you must be the holder of a Swiss amateur radio call sign (CEPT, NOVICE, club/special/contest call sign).
A CEPT call sign is required for satellite uplinks and unattended systems.
The technical manager must be available at all times during operation.
A fee of CHF 70.00 is charged for the initial allocation.
New customers must first register on the portal. This can be done free of charge via the CH-LOGIN provided by the Confederation. Instructions are available in the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).
Existing OFCOM customers who never had an account on the previous portal (OFCOM Online) are requested to email us at kf-fk@bakom.admin.ch before registering on the DETEC eGovernment portal. You can register and submit your application as soon as you receive our approval.
Notification of special frequency usage
You can also contact OFCOM directly if you have questions about the portal (kf-fk@bakom.admin.ch).